There’s A Font Inspired By A Philippine President

Ask any graphic designer or art director what their favorite fonts are, and they will show you their personal picks. They will probably rave about the modernist popularity of Helvetica, extol the classic lines of Baskerville, and point out the skinny minimalism of Century Gothic.

But did you know that there is a locally designed font named after a Philippine president? The Quezon typeface, designed by Filipino illustrator and designer Kimchi Lee, is a font that is inspired by Manuel L. Quezon, the first Philippine president of the Commonwealth period (1935-1946).

According to Lee’s Behance portfolio, the Quezon typeface “…was inspired by a mixture of art deco, the ancient Filipino script ‘Baybayin,’ and the old buildings of Metro Manila still standing today.” In the writeup, Lee also says she was inspired by her home, Quezon City.

This typeface does have that rounded, art deco feel that was popular in the 1930s-40s, and it has a slight lilt that turns up or down into a very subtle flourish or a chiseled point.

The best part about using this typeface is that if you do pay for its use, proceeds will go to local educational charities, so you can contribute to great design and to the welfare of our country, as well. Download the typeface here.